Jannik Sinner did not shine as expected in the first two months of 2026.
The world number 2 not only did not defend his title at the Australian Open, but he did not even reach the final at Melbourne Park, losing to Serbian legend Novak Djokovic in the semifinals at the end of a match in which the Italian ace wasted many chances.
Despite a performance below expectations, the 24-year-old from Sesto Pusteria had the opportunity to reach another Major final but was not cynical in the decisive moments. In addition, the former world number 1 has shown that he still has some difficulties in long matches and is working on this aspect.
Italian fans had hoped that the 24-year-old from Sesto Pusteria would already react at the Doha ATP 500 last week, but his run in Qatar came to a halt against 20-year-old Czech Jakub Mensik who put in a performance bordering on perfection in the quarterfinals.
Panatta speaks about Sinner
In his latest press conference, the four-time Grand Slam champion admitted that he is going through a physiological decline and added that he is not worried. He also revealed that Roland Garros represents one of his main goals this year, considering that it is the only Grand Slam tournament he still misses.
As was quite predictable, the Spanish media are exalting Carlos Alcaraz's exploits and have defined Sinner as a player in crisis.
During the latest edition of 'La Domenica Sportiva', Italian legend Adriano Panatta said he was not worried about Jannik: "It's not true that he is in crisis. He has only lost two matches, one against Nole who is a tennis legend and the other against a young star who is number 16 in the world."
Panatta also added: "The real difference between Sinner and Alcaraz will only be seen in Grand Slam tournaments and I am very confident about it. Real tennis begins with the two Masters 1000 in the USA and then on red clay with Roland Garros."
The world No.2 will return to action in Indian Wells next month.
